By Amjad Qaimkhani
WASHINGTON: The Trump administration is considering taking control of nuclear material in Iran as part of a broader review of military options, with plans potentially including the deployment of US forces to Iranian ports and islands, according to American media reports. The White House is reviewing multiple courses of action, including a possible military operation to seize enriched uranium stockpiles as well as options to take control of Iran’s oil infrastructure.
The Joint Special Operations Command is being considered for such an operation, which would represent a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict that began on February 28. A White House spokesperson stated that preparations fall under the purview of the Pentagon, adding that President Donald Trump has not yet made any final decision regarding the operation.
The reported planning comes as US and Israeli forces continue their campaign against Iranian military installations and nuclear facilities, with Tehran vowing severe retaliation for any attacks on its territory or infrastructure. Any move to seize nuclear material or occupy Iranian territory would dramatically widen the scope of the conflict, which has already drawn in Gulf states, Iraqi resistance groups and British military facilities.
